Love, Love, Love

A reading for Tuesday, December 6, 2016: Acts 2:14:21.

When I look at the blood

all I see is love, love, love.

When I stop at the cross

I can see the love of God.

But I can’t see competition.

I can’t see hierarchy.

I can’t see pride or prejudice

or the abuse of authority.

I can’t see lust for power.

I can’t see manipulation.

I can’t see rage or anger

or selfish ambition.

I can’t see unforgiveness.

I can’t see hate or envy.

I can’t see stupid fighting

or bitterness, or jealousy.

I can’t see empire building.

I can’t see self-importance.

I can’t see back-stabbing

or vanity or arrogance.

I see surrender, sacrifice, salvation,

humility, righteousness, faithfulness, grace, forgiveness,

love! Love … love…

When I stop! … at the cross

I can see the love of God.

-Godfrey Birtill